Episodes
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To See
Mark 10:46-52
In today’s Gospel, Father Mark reflects on the story of Bartimaeus, a blind beggar, who calls out to Jesus, asking for mercy and the ability to see. Bartimaeus's plea is met initially with scorn by the crowd, who view him only as a sinner and an unworthy presence. However, Jesus, who looks beyond labels and sees Bartimaeus as a person of value, calls him forward. The Gospel invites us to consider the depth of Bartimaeus’s request, which may not only be for physical sight but also for spiritual vision—a desire to see life and others through the lens of divine love. Father Mark challenges us to embrace this spiritual perspective, reminding us of John Newton’s hymn "Amazing Grace," where newfound sight represents an awakening to compassion and love for others.
Father Mark highlights the difference between the disciples, who ask Jesus for personal glory, and Bartimaeus, who humbly asks for sight. This contrast illustrates the Gospel’s call to seek spiritual wholeness rather than self-promotion. Bartimaeus’s story also prompts us to examine our own tendencies to label others in dismissive ways, reducing them to stereotypes and stripping away their humanity. Jesus shows us that true discipleship requires seeing each person as a fellow child of God, deserving of dignity and respect.
The transformation of the crowd, who move from silencing Bartimaeus to encouraging him at Jesus’s prompting, serves as an example of the power of compassion to change our hearts. Following Jesus means overcoming our biases and striving to see others not as mere labels but as unique, beloved individuals. Father Mark urges us to heed Jesus’s question, “What do you want me to do for you?” and to answer by seeking the grace to see others with compassion and open-heartedness.
Scripture quotations are from New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright © 1989 National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
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Journey of Love
Mark 12:28-34
In this Gospel reading from Mark, Jesus emphasizes the two greatest commandments: to love God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength, and to love your neighbor as yourself. A scribe agrees with Jesus, affirming that love is more important than offerings or sacrifices. Jesus praises the scribe’s wisdom, telling him he is close to the kingdom of God.
Following the Gospel, Dan and Debi Blackwell share the emotional journey they experienced after discovering their son, Opie, was gay. Initially, they struggled with grief, denial, and societal fears, but eventually, they accepted their son for who he is. Their story highlights the transformation they underwent, realizing that their prayers to change Opie were answered by God changing them instead.
The Blackwells reflect on the importance of loving and accepting all people as children of God, regardless of their differences. They urge the church community to welcome those who feel marginalized, including LGBTQ+ individuals, reminding everyone that Jesus calls us to love without judgment. Their story is a powerful testament to family, faith, and the journey toward unconditional love.
Scripture quotations are from New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright © 1989 National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
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Episodes manquant?
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Radical Inclusion
Mark 10:17-31
Bishop Kym Lucas’s sermon, rooted in the Gospel of Mark (Mark 10:17-31), explores the challenging nature of following Jesus in a world that often prioritizes wealth, comfort, and fitting in over faithfulness. She emphasizes that salvation is not something that can be earned through good deeds or by following societal norms, but rather through God’s grace. Jesus’ words to the rich man highlight the impossibility of earning eternal life by human effort alone.
In her sermon, Bishop Kym critiques the idea of being “good” as defined by societal standards—often equated with avoiding conflict or staying comfortable. Instead, she urges the congregation to embrace “faithfulness,” which may involve standing up against injustice, challenging bad laws, and engaging in what John Lewis famously called “good trouble.” She insists that following Jesus means extending love, compassion, and mercy to everyone, particularly those who are marginalized or ostracized. She concludes by calling for radical inclusion, recognizing that Jesus invites all people, regardless of status, to share in God’s grace.
Scripture quotations are from New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright © 1989 National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
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Open Hearts
Mark 10:2-16
Father Mark’s sermon focuses on Jesus’ teaching that to receive the kingdom of God, one must be like a little child—open-hearted, open-minded, and humble. He explains that children naturally embody these qualities because they are receptive, vulnerable, and willing to learn. Unlike adults, who often grow closed and guarded as they age, children remain open to the unknown and unafraid to be molded by new experiences. Jesus’ words highlight the importance of maintaining this childlike openness throughout life to fully experience God’s grace and presence.
The sermon also explores the idea of intellectual humility, emphasizing the need to remain open-minded and adaptable. Father Mark draws on examples from research and neuroscience, illustrating that children possess far greater creative flexibility and intellectual humility than adults, who tend to become set in their ways. The message challenges adults to rethink their perspectives and avoid the prideful belief that they already have all the answers. Father Mark urges the congregation to remain willing to revise their views and prioritize learning and connection over being right.
Ultimately, Father Mark emphasizes that an open heart and mind are crucial for receiving the kingdom of God. He reflects on the spiritual practices that help keep one’s heart open and receptive, counteracting the temptation to judge, fear, or withdraw. True spirituality, according to Father Mark, involves regularly checking in with oneself, ensuring that love and grace flow freely rather than being hoarded. In this way, he argues, followers of Christ can embody the openness and humility of a child, allowing God’s Spirit to work within and through them.
Scripture quotations are from New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright © 1989 National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
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The Messiah We Need
Mark 8:27-38
Father Mark’s sermon centers on the profound question Jesus poses to His disciples: “Who do you say that I am?” Peter answers, “You are the Messiah,” but his understanding of the Messiah clashes with the reality of Jesus’ mission. Peter, like many Jews of his time, envisioned a Messiah who would triumph politically, akin to King David. However, Jesus reveals that His path is one of suffering, rejection, and ultimately death, before rising again. When Peter tries to rebuke Jesus for this, he is sternly corrected, illustrating the danger of imposing personal or cultural expectations on God’s plan.
Father Mark draws parallels between Peter’s mistake and the modern tendency to envision a Jesus who reflects our own political or cultural biases. Just as Peter struggled to accept a Messiah who would suffer, many today shape their image of Jesus to fit their personal ideologies. Father Mark emphasizes the importance of allowing Jesus’ true nature to challenge and transform us. He urges the congregation to go beyond surface-level understanding, seek deeper spiritual roots, and be open to the ways Jesus calls us to align our lives with His teachings, even when they challenge our comfort or deeply held beliefs.
Scripture quotations are from New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright © 1989 National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
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Jesus Listened
Mark 7:24-37
In today’s sermon, Father Mark delves into the challenging gospel passage where Jesus encounters a Syrophoenician woman who pleads for her daughter’s healing. Initially, Jesus responds with a harsh dismissal, referring to the woman as a “dog,” which reflects the prejudices of his time. However, the woman’s persistent faith leads Jesus to reconsider, and he heals her daughter. Father Mark explores the idea that even Jesus, in his humanity, was shaped by his cultural upbringing and was capable of growth. This growth is exemplified in Jesus’ ability to change his mind, shedding his “shell” of cultural and religious bias, much like a lobster must shed its shell to grow.
Father Mark emphasizes the importance of being open to change and growth, even for Jesus. He challenges the congregation to embrace the possibility of lifelong learning and transformation, often through unexpected people and situations. By highlighting Jesus’ willingness to repent and be changed by the Syrophoenician woman, Father Mark calls on us to remain humble, open to new ideas, and willing to shed our own rigid preconceptions.
Scripture quotations are from New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright © 1989 National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
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From Law to Love
Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23
In this sermon, Father Mark reflects on the confrontation between Jesus and the Pharisees from the Gospel of Mark, where the Pharisees criticize Jesus’ disciples for not following the traditions of washing hands before eating. Jesus responds by challenging their focus on external rituals rather than the internal condition of the heart, teaching that what truly defiles a person comes from within. Father Mark relates this to modern-day Christianity, pointing out how rules and boundaries, often enforced to protect religious identity, can lead to exclusion and self-righteousness, instead of fostering deeper connection with God and others.
He further explores the evolution of faith, using the Old Testament stages of development—from the laws of the Torah to the self-criticism of the prophets, and finally, to the wisdom literature that embraces mystery and paradox. Father Mark encourages the congregation to reflect on where they stand in their own spiritual journey: Are they still focused on laws and rules, or have they reached a place of wisdom where they embrace the complexity of life with compassion and understanding? Particularly during contentious times like elections, he emphasizes the need for Christians to avoid judgment and focus on repentance, humility, and love for others, especially those with opposing views.
Scripture quotations are from New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright © 1989 National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
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Feeding on Love
John 6:56-69
Father Mark’s sermon explores the pervasive presence of “negative energy” in modern society, comparing it to a force that feeds on conflict and hate, much like the alien entity in a Star Trek episode. This energy is encouraged by “conflict entrepreneurs” such as news outlets, social media influencers, and politicians who profit from escalating discord. The message urges listeners to recognize this force as alien to our true selves and to choose instead to serve God, who restores us to love, sanity, and wholeness.
Drawing on biblical references, particularly from Joshua and Ephesians, the sermon speaks to the spiritual battle against “cosmic powers of darkness” and encourages a shift from hate to love. The preacher compares hate to an addiction that feels good temporarily but ultimately depresses the Holy Spirit within us. Following the steps of 12-Step programs, the path to healing begins with acknowledging powerlessness over hate and turning to God for restoration.
The sermon concludes with a call to abide in Christ, as depicted in the Gospel of John, where feeding on Christ means embodying his love and rejecting the divisive energy of hate. The imagery of the Star Trek crew overcoming conflict by recognizing the true source of their struggle serves as a metaphor for society’s need to unite as one Body in Christ, transcending differences and overcoming the force of hatred through love and mutual joy.
Scripture quotations are from New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright © 1989 National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
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Manna
John 6:35, 41-51
Father Mark reflects on Jesus' declaration that He is the "bread of life" and the challenges this posed to His audience, who questioned His divine origin. He emphasizes that true sustenance and eternal life come through faith in Jesus, the living bread from heaven. This theme of divine nourishment is contrasted with the "do's and don'ts" found in the epistle reading from Ephesians. The passage presents a moral code that calls Christians to reject bitterness, anger, and slander, and instead embrace truthfulness, kindness, and forgiveness. These virtues are not just moral guidelines but reflections of God's own character, which believers are called to imitate.
Father Mark further discusses the idea of imitation, noting that as humans, we learn by mimicking others, whether consciously or not. He cautions against being influenced by modern-day social media influencers, whose influence may not always be positive or rooted in truth. Instead, Christians are urged to look to God, as revealed through Jesus Christ, as their primary example. By imitating Christ, they align themselves with their true identity, created in God's image, and live out their calling to be kind, compassionate, and forgiving, just as God is toward us.
Scripture quotations are from New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright © 1989 National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
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Bread of Living
John 6:24-35
In this sermon, Father Mark reflects on two significant biblical passages: the feeding of the five thousand from the Gospel of John and Paul's letter to the Ephesians. In John's Gospel, Jesus confronts the crowd following Him not for His miracles but for the physical sustenance He provided. He urges them to seek spiritual nourishment that leads to eternal life, emphasizing that He Himself is the "bread of life" that quenches all hunger and thirst. This message underlines the importance of seeking spiritual fulfillment over earthly desires.
Father Mark connects this to Paul's exhortation in Ephesians, where Paul implores Christians to live a life worthy of their divine calling, characterized by humility, gentleness, patience, and unity. Despite the prevalent division and partisanship in today's society, Christians are called to embody the values of God's kingdom—mercy, kindness, and peace. He stresses that living according to the kingdom's values contrasts sharply with the world's mindset. This requires a conscious effort to be true to God's image within us, pursuing maturity and unity in Christ.
Scripture quotations are from New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright © 1989 National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
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Abundance
John 6:1-21
In today's sermon, Father Mark delves into the Gospel of John, highlighting the symbolic and multi-layered nature of John's storytelling, which contrasts with the more straightforward narratives of Matthew, Mark, and Luke. Father Mark emphasizes that John's Gospel often focuses on the spiritual realm and its intersection with the physical world. Using examples such as Nicodemus, the Samaritan woman, and Lazarus, he illustrates how Jesus' teachings point to deeper spiritual realities that are often misunderstood by those focused solely on the material world.
Focusing on the story of Jesus feeding the 5,000, Father Mark explains that Jesus' question to Philip about feeding the crowd was a test of Philip's awareness of the spiritual realm. While Philip and Andrew are fixated on the physical limitations of scarcity, Jesus introduces the abundance of the spiritual realm. Father Mark encourages the congregation to recognize and tap into the spiritual resources available through faith, emphasizing that the kingdom of God is always present within and among us. By aligning ourselves with this spiritual reality, we can experience renewal, abundance, and the ability to overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges.
Scripture quotations are from New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright © 1989 National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
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Wholehearted Rest
Mark 6:30-34, 53-56
In his sermon, Father Mark emphasizes the importance of unity in worship, whether gathered in person or online, symbolized by the collective lighting of candles. He explores the theme of rest, using the story of Jesus and his disciples seeking solitude but finding a needy crowd. Jesus’ compassion for the crowd, despite his own need for rest, highlights the rejuvenating power of wholehearted service and divine compassion.
Father Mark introduces the idea of "Sabbath rest," which transcends mere physical rest and involves being sustained by God's creation and acting in harmony with the Creator's spirit. He references a conversation between poet David White and a Benedictine monk, underscoring that the antidote to exhaustion is wholeheartedness, not inactivity. Father Mark encourages the congregation to approach their tasks with open hearts, allowing God's love and grace to flow through them, thus finding true refreshment and renewal in their spiritual and daily lives.
Scripture quotations are from New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright © 1989 National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
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Choosing God's Kingdom
Mark 6:1-13
In today's sermon, Father Mark reflects on the juxtaposition of Herod's gruesome banquet and the serene memory of golfing with his late father. He recounts the Gospel story where Herod, pressured by Herodias and her daughter, beheads John the Baptist to save face. This story illustrates the stark contrast between the worldly kingdom ruled by power and ego and the kingdom of God governed by love, integrity, and self-giving.
Father Mark draws parallels to contemporary events, lamenting the pervasive violence in society, such as the tragic shooting at a golf course and the recent assassination attempt on a former president. He emphasizes the need to reject the kingdom of this world, which thrives on polarization and hatred, and instead embrace the kingdom of God, where love and righteousness prevail. He calls on the congregation to seek God's kingdom first, urging them to live in a way that reflects God's love and provisions.
Scripture quotations are from New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright © 1989 National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
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Embracing the Hidden Presence
Mark 6:1-13
In his sermon, Father Mark delves into the deep, often hidden presence of God within us and others. He emphasizes that while the townspeople of Nazareth recognized Jesus merely as a carpenter, they missed the profound divine essence and power within him. This oversight, Father Mark explains, was due to their unwillingness to see beyond their preconceived notions and biases. He encourages us to remain open and receptive to the divine possibilities within everyone, urging us to let go of our judgments and embrace the transformative love that flows from recognizing the image of God in ourselves and others.
Father Mark illustrates this with examples from the Bible, highlighting how God uses flawed, ordinary individuals to achieve extraordinary things. He challenges us to seek and serve Christ in all persons, recognizing the divine light within. Drawing from personal anecdotes and theological insights, he calls on the congregation to foster a deeper awareness of God’s presence in everyday life and to embrace the courage to let our own divine light shine.
Scripture quotations are from New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright © 1989 National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
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Lessons From the Storm
Mark 4:35-41
In today's sermon, Father Mark reflects on the Gospel of Mark, where Jesus calms a violent storm while his disciples panic. He draws a parallel between this biblical event and his own personal experience with anxiety during a trip to Spain in 1975.
Father Mark shares how, as a young man, his sense of self-worth was deeply tied to external validation, leading to feelings of insecurity and fear of losing control. During a particularly anxious moment, he had a profound realization that peace and self-worth come from within, grounded in faith, rather than from external circumstances.
Father Mark further explores how Jesus' calming of the storm serves as a metaphor for finding inner peace amidst life's tumultuous events. He suggests that Jesus' questions to the disciples, "Why are you afraid? Have you still no faith?" should be seen not as accusations but as invitations to deepen one's faith and trust in God.
By reflecting on these questions, we can understand the importance of being centered in God rather than being swayed by external forces. Father Mark emphasizes that true peace comes from within and that faith allows us to respond calmly to life's storms, just as Jesus did.
Scripture quotations are from New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright © 1989 National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
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Trusting in Divine Growth
Mark 4:26-34
Father Mark's sermon focuses on the parable of the mustard seed from the Gospel of Mark, illustrating the mystery and divine nature of God's kingdom. He emphasizes that the kingdom of God grows automatically, without human intervention, symbolized by a seed that sprouts and grows while the farmer sleeps.
This innate fertility reflects God's generative power at work in creation, independent of human effort. Father Mark contrasts this divine growth with the common belief that success depends solely on human intelligence and hard work, reminding the congregation that true growth and life come from God.
Drawing from personal experience and scriptural references, Father Mark highlights the importance of recognizing our limited control and embracing God's providence. He recounts his own observations of a resilient plant in his backyard and St. Paul's message to the Corinthians, underscoring that it is God who gives the growth.
He encourages the congregation to shift from a mindset of willfulness to willingness, trusting in God's guidance and participating in the divine flow of life. This trust, he notes, brings freedom and peace, contrasting sharply with the anxiety of trying to control every aspect of our lives.
Scripture quotations are from New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright © 1989 National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
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Spiritual Center
Mark 3:20-35
In today's sermon, Father Mark reflects on the Gospel of Mark where Jesus faces skepticism from his family and accusations from the scribes. Jesus responds to these challenges by questioning how a divided kingdom can stand, emphasizing the need for unity and strong foundational beliefs. Jesus' teaching centers on the idea that true family is defined not by blood but by a shared commitment to doing God's will.
Father Mark expands on this by discussing how, in ancient times, one's identity and honor were deeply intertwined with family. He contrasts this with Jesus' call for a radical shift in consciousness, encouraging followers to place their devotion to God above all societal and familial norms. He stresses the importance of having a strong spiritual reference point, much like a train needing a clear direction, to navigate life meaningfully and faithfully.
To maintain this spiritual center, Father Mark suggests daily devotional practices, reminding the congregation that without a strong commitment to God, people may find themselves devoted to less worthy pursuits. He concludes by urging everyone to regularly recenter their lives around God's will, ensuring that their primary allegiance is to the kingdom of God.
Scripture quotations are from New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright © 1989 National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
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Reorienting to God
Mark 2:23-3:6
In today's gospel from Mark, Jesus challenges the Pharisees' rigid interpretation of Sabbath laws through two significant incidents. First, when His disciples pluck grain on the Sabbath and are accused of breaking the law, Jesus reminds the Pharisees of David eating the consecrated bread out of necessity. He asserts that the Sabbath is made to serve humanity, not to impose burdens. In the second incident, Jesus heals a man with a withered hand on the Sabbath, exposing the Pharisees' hypocrisy as they prioritize legalism over compassion and even plot against Jesus on the same holy day.
Father Mark emphasizes that, like the Pharisees, we can become self-righteous and judgmental, using religious or cultural laws to serve our own egos rather than God's will. He challenges us to re-evaluate our beliefs and actions to ensure they are life-giving and spirit-nourishing, aligning with Jesus’ example of compassion and love. In today's polarized world, Father Mark urges us to reorient ourselves towards God, rather than becoming entrenched in partisan identities that divide and harden our hearts. By centering ourselves in God's love, we can transcend our differences and fulfill the true purpose of God's laws.
Scripture quotations are from New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright © 1989 National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
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Divine Dance
John 3:1-17
Father Mark's sermon focuses on the mysterious and profound doctrine of the Trinity, emphasizing that while it may seem irrational and incomprehensible, it holds significant truths about the nature of God and our relationship with Him. The sermon begins by acknowledging the mystery of the Trinity—one God in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Despite the apparent irrationality of this concept, Father Mark explains that it arises from humanity's experience of God and scripture, not mere rational thought. He emphasizes that the Trinity should not be seen as a definitive explanation of God, but rather as a metaphor that helps us grasp certain divine truths.
Father Mark highlights two key truths that the Trinity reveals about God. First, the diversity within the Godhead reflects the diversity of creation. This diversity is seen in the myriad of species and unique individual traits among humans, all of which mirror the varied yet unified nature of the Trinity. Second, the Trinity underscores the importance of relationships. The eternal dance of self-giving love among the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit exemplifies the perfect relational community, which humans are called to emulate. By transcending individualism and dualism, and entering into loving relationships, we reflect the divine unity and love of the Trinity.
To illustrate these concepts, Father Mark uses the metaphors of a circle of giving and receiving and a circle dance. The endless flow of love within the Trinity is like a continuous circle where each person gives and receives fully, and this divine dance invites us to participate. We are called to join this dance, embodying the love and unity of the Trinity in our lives and communities, thus fulfilling our divine purpose and reflecting the divine nature.
Scripture quotations are from New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright © 1989 National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
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Ever-Present Spirit
John 15:26-27; 16:4b-15
Father Mark’s sermon focuses on the Holy Spirit’s presence in the lives of believers, drawing on biblical examples from both the Old and New Testaments.
He explains that the Spirit of God has always been with humanity, empowering individuals for extraordinary deeds and guiding them in truth. The sermon emphasizes that the Holy Spirit’s presence is not new or intermittent, but a constant force within us, as evidenced by Pentecost.
Father Mark highlights the significance of realizing and awakening to this indwelling Spirit, urging believers to live from the awareness that God’s Spirit is within them. This awareness can bring strength, comfort, and unity, helping us navigate life’s challenges and fostering a deeper connection with God and each other.
Scripture quotations are from New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright © 1989 National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
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